Drew Austin

Drew Austin has a diverse work experience spanning various industries and roles. Drew is the Founder & Managing Partner of Red Beard Ventures, where they focus on investing in non-consensus companies and industries that enable the future of the internet. Drew is also a Co-Founder of Knights of Degen, a web3 sports gaming studio powered by NFTs.

Previously, Drew served as the CEO & Co-Founder of Wade & Wendy, a startup that was later acquired by PandoLogic. Drew was also a Volunteer Managing Director at FounderDating, where they connected business and technical founders and influenced the growth of the NYC startup ecosystem. As a Mentor at StartFast, a mentorship-driven accelerator, Drew provided guidance to early-stage internet/software startups.

Drew's experience also includes being a Co-Founder & COO of AUGMATE, a venture-backed enterprise platform for wearable devices in the industrial workplace. Drew played a key role in growing the team and securing funding.

Before their entrepreneurial ventures, Drew was the CEO & Co-Founder of The Convos and Campus Socialite Media, marketing agencies that targeted the college student demographic. Drew also worked as an Angel Investor at NERD Beverage Corporation and as a Recruiter & Business Development Manager at Connections of New York, an IT-focused executive search firm.

Throughout their career, Drew has demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit, leadership skills, and expertise in various industries, including web3, blockchain/crypto, NFTs, fintech, and marketing.

Drew Austin attended Syracuse University - Martin J. Whitman School of Management from 2003 to 2007. During this time, they obtained a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Entrepreneurship & Emerging Enterprises. In September 2021, they also received a certification in NFT Degen from Knights of Degen.